Population is a scale issue because it is a multiplier of per capita throughput –too many people consume too much. The more people there are engaging in economic activities, the more throughput there is to degrade global ecosystems. At some combination of population and per capita consumption, the total throughput generated exceeds the regenerative capacities of global ecosystems to continue providing life support services. Evidence indicates that we have already exceeded this amount; further population growth will make the problem worse. (See Population as aScale Problem)

Will the Proposed Solutions Achieve Sustainable Scale?

International bodies focusing on the reduction of the human population consider economic growth as necessary for supporting programs which educate and empower women, and make contraception available - effective means of lowering fertility. While useful, these programs are unlikely to achieve a sustainable population level until the necessity of total consumption remaining within the biophysical limits of ecosystems is also recognized. This can be achieved only by reducing population and/or global per capita consumption, or both. (Proposed Solutions to the Population Problem)

What Additional Policies Are Required?

Population must be considered in relation to per capita consumptions to ensure that whatever combination of the two is within the regenerative capacities of global ecosystems. Potentially attractive combinations are feasible within the current century. (See Additional Population Solutions)

What Scale Relevant Lessons Can We Take from the Population Issue?

Current population policies have been partially successful at reducing human fertility. However, current population projections would create a situation by 2050 that would be undesirable for the majority of humanity. Options exist to significantly improve the opportunities for the future, but action is urgently needed. (See Lessons Regarding the Population Problem)